Capacitor discharge ignition testing apparatus

ABSTRACT

Capacitor discharge ignition analyzer includes a pulse source operable to generate electrical signals related to the inputoutput signals of various capacitor discharge ignition systems including battery driven and alternator driven systems. The pulse source may include a relaxation oscillator and switching transistors to generate appropriate initial charging pulses and delayed triggering pulses. Individual load matching circuit are provided to match the load normally applied to the trigger circuit of breakerless ignition systems. An on-off indicator is connected to be driven from the matching circuits. The analyzer also includes an electronic circuit generating an output signal approximating that of the permanent magnet alternators for charging of alternator driven systems. The circuit also includes means to generate a trigger pulse a predetermined time after the charging pulse. The analyzer also includes a self-testing circuit, and may be powered from a conventional battery. A polarity sensitive circuit indicates proper and improper battery connections. The analyzer includes a converter for generating alternating polarity signals, with the circuit connected to provide individual signals matched to selected types of ignition systems. A selection switch means provides for selected connection between an input-output tap means on the analyzer and the ignition circuits. The output of the capacitor is analyzed by a spark gap with an outer enclosure having a small opening. This permits direct testing of the ignition system on the engine without any practical danger of generating explosions as a result of surrounding gas fumes. A separate meter is provided to permit static testing of the output of the voltage and resistance characteristics of the several circuits, with a special energy adaptor being provided to permit selected connection of the ignition capacitor outputs into the meter.

United States Patent June 24, 1975 Harris 1 CAPACITOR DISCHARGE IGNITION TESTING APPARATUS [75] Inventor: Mark Harris, Brownsville, Wis. [73] Assignee: Brunswick Corporation, Skokie, Ill

[22] Filed: Mar. 29, 1973 [21] Appl. No.: 346,158

[52] US. Cl 324/16 R [51] Int. Cl G01r 13/42; G01r 23/00 [58] Field of Search 324/15, 16, 17

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,521,155 7/1970 Zdral 324/15 3.551.800 12/1970 Widmer 324/15 3,596,174 7/1971 Hovenga 324/17 Primary E.\-aminerAlfred E. Smith Assistant Examiner-Rolf Hille Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Andrus, Sceales, Starke & Sawall l 5 7 ABSTRACT Capacitor discharge ignition analyzer includes a pulse source operable to generate electrical signals related to the input-output signals of various capacitor discharge ignition systems including battery driven and alternator driven systems. The pulse source may include a relaxation oscillator and switching transistors to generate appropriate initial charging pulses and delayed triggering pulses. Individual load matching circuit are provided to match the load normally applied to the trigger circuit of breakerless ignition systems. An on-off indicator is connected to be driven from the matching circuits. The analyzer also includes an electronic circuit generating an output signal approximating that of the permanent magnet alternators for charging of alternator driven systems. The circuit also includes means to generate a trigger pulse a predetermined time after the charging pulse. The analyzer also includes a self-testing circuit, and may be powered from a conventional battery. A polarity sensitive circuit indicates proper and improper battery connections. The analyzer includes a converter for generating alternating polarity signals, with the circuit connected to provide individual signals matched to selected types of ignition systems. A selection switch means provides for selected connection between an input-output tap means on the analyzer and the ignition circuits. The output of the capacitor is analyzed by a spark gap with an outer enclosure having a small opening. This permits direct testing of the ignition system on the engine without any practical danger of generating explosions as a result of surrounding gas fumes. A separate meter is provided to permit static testing of the output of the voltage and resistance characteristics of the several circuits, with a special energy adaptor being provided to permit selected connection of the ignition capacitor outputs into the meter.

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1 CAPACITOR DISCHARGE IGNITION TESTING APPARATUS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to an ignition testing apparatus and particularly to such apparatus for dynamically analyzing the operation of capacitor discharge ignition systerns.

Capacitor discharge ignition systems have been recently developed for operation of internal combustion engines. Generally. such systems employ a capacitor which is charged to a selected level and then selectively discharged to a spark plug for firing of the engine. The capacitor charging circuit may generally employ a battery and suitable DC. to DC. converter to charge the capacitor or. alternatively, may employ an engine driven alternator. A triggered blocking oscillator provides a highly satisfactory DC. to DC. converter, and preferably employs a solid state switching unit for initiating a charging cycle. The discharge circuit generally employs a control rectifier or other similar solid state threshold switching means for completing of a discharge circuit. A controlled rectifier and a pulsing transformer may be employed to provide for rapid transfer of the energy from the capacitor into the spark plug circuit.

A particularly satisfactory battery driven charging circuit employing a blocking oscillator is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,502.955 which issued Mar. 24. I970 to F. Minks wherein the initiation of the charging cycle simultaneously establishes a discharge signal for firing of a control rectifier and discharging of the capacitor energy stored from a previous cycle. A saturable unit is provided to terminate the charging cycle and thereby transfer a predetermined constant amount of energy to the capacitor during each charging cycle to establish a closely regulated energy transfer per pulse to the spark plug.

The controlled rectifier of the discharge circuit is preferably actuated from a breakerless system. A preferred means includes a control oscillator which is switched on and off by a distributor driven apertured metal disc to generate successive pulses for simultaneously firing the controlled rectifier and triggering of the blocking oscillator circuit as more fully shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,955.

Another satisfactory breakerless capacitor ignition system employs a magnetically driven differential amplifying circuit including a distributor driven rotating magnetic means to generate a series of triggering pulses as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,257 which issued Oct. 3. 1972 to Charles L. Shano. The pulse initiates operation of a charging circuit having a current level sensing resistor to provide for predetermined energy transfer to a capacitor. The trigger circuit is also connected to the input of the controlled rectifier to discharge the capacitor.

An alternator driven system may also take various forms. For example, U.S. Pat. application, Ser. No. 736,739 which was filed on June I3, 1968, for ALTER- NATOR DRIVEN CAPACITOR POWER SYSTEM discloses an alternator driven capacitor discharge ignition system wherein a dual winding alternator is provided for charging of a capacitor to a selected level at varying speeds, with one winding predominantly operating at a low speed range and the other winding pre dominantly operating during the high speed range. The

capacitor is charged during one half-cycle of the alternator output and triggered during and in response to the negative half-cycle. Alternatively, a separate triggering alternator may be employed. particularly to provide a distributorless ignition. Thus. as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,566,]88 which issued Feb. 23, 1971 to F. Minks. a separate trigger signal generator may be provided with separate triggering windings for connection to individual control rectifiers for selectively discharging of the capacitor energy into any one of a plurality of discharge circuits connected to corresponding individual spark plugs.

Further, particularly when the apparatus is applied to outboard motors and the like. the electronic circuitry is preferably potted in a suitable encapsulating plastic or the like to prevent damage to the components from the environment and also from vibration and the like. This, however. makes it extremely difficult to check the operation of the potted circuit.

Further. the capacitor discharge ignition systems as described employ electronic circuitry which requires significant knowledge and skill in electronics in order to properly evaluate the circuit. Generally. service personnel who have been servicing the more conventional breaker point system will not have the knowledge and skill to properly evaluate and service electronic ignition systems.

As a result, the servicing. maintenance and repair of an electronic ignition system has presented very significant practical problems and generally the switch units are returned to the factory if the service personnel determines that it is the ignition system that is preventing proper operation. Often. however, the system may be improperly evaluated because of the limited capabilities of the service personnel and the ignition failure improperly assigned to what is, in fact. a properly functioning unit.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is particularly directed to an ignition analyzer which permits dynamic analyzing of a plurality of different ignition systems such as those heretofore discussed and which permits such analysis with essentially a very minimum amount of knowledge or technical skill in electronics such as involved in the ignition system.

Generally, in accordance with the present invention the analyzer circuit includes electronic circuitry operable to generate electrical signals related to the inputoutput signals of the capacitor discharge ignition sys tem to be analyzed. The several circuits are interconnected to an output means to permit selective interconnection of the output circuits into the trigger units and alternatively into the main charging circuit to individually and separately test the operation of such circuits.

In order to permit analysis of alternator driven ignition systems. the analyzer includes an electronic circuit generating an output signal approximating that of the permanent magnet alternators employed in connection with engines for outboards. snowmobiles and the like. This permits checking of the circuit directly from a known operating input.

The analyzer in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention includes a self-testing means to permit checking on the operability of the internal analyzer circuits.

Generally. in accordance with a preferred construction of the present invention, the analyzer is powered from a suitable D.C. supply such as a battery of a voltage level corresponding to conventional battery supply employed in operation of internal combustion engines for automobiles, outboard motors, snowmobiles and other recreation vehicles The analyzer includes a battery input means having a polarity sensitive network to provide an indication if the analyzer is improperly connected to the battery supply with reverse polarity. and to positively isolate the operating circuitry from the effects of any reverse power supply connection. A test switch selectively completes the power connection to the basic oscillator source such that power is only supplied with the test switch actuated.

The circuit includes a converter or pulse source for generating a pulsing or alternating signal with the circuit connected to provide individual signals matched to selected types of ignition systems. The source is preferably a basic oscillator connected to establish a plurality of appropriate pulse signals connected to the other components of the analyzer. A selection switch means provides for selected connection between an inputoutput tap means on the analyzer and the associated analyzer circuitry. Thus in a preferred construction of the present invention. the selection switch means pro vided one circuit connection for the driving of alternator driven systems such as heretofore discussed, second and third positions for checking the trigger circuitry of the battery driven systems and fourth and fifth positions for analyzing the operation of the main charging networks. As more fully developed in connection with a preferred construction. a sixth position provided a means to check the operating characteristics of a pulse driven tachometer such as disclosed in US. Pat. No. 3.502.955.

In the manual or alternator driven analyzer position, the output of the oscillator is connected to a drive blocking oscillator which is specially constructed to form a rising pulse signal which closely approximates the output of the conventional permanent magnet alternator such as advantageously employed in connection with alternator driven capacitor discharge ignition systems.

The output of the blocking oscillator is connected to the charging circuit of an alternator driven capacitor discharge ignition system to stimulate the operation of the alternator and provide for the desired charging of the capacitor. The circuit further includes a means for transfer of a small amount of the negative pulse sufficient to provide a triggering of a single alternator capacitor discharge ignition system. Alternatively, the basic oscillator circuit generates a trigger pulse a predetermined time after the generation of the pulse initiating the alternator simulating blocking oscillator at a corresponding trigger pulse output which is releasably connected into the ignition system switch box to trigger the discharge circuit.

In order to provide for accurate checking of the distributor driven trigger pulse generators. individual load matching circuits are provided to match the load normally applied to the trigger circuit. The selection switch means couples the matching circuits with an input to the trigger pulse generator to operate the indicating device in accordance with the output of the triggering circuit. Thus in a highly satisfactory and novel system, the output of the triggering circuits are coupled through matching loads to drive a counting device the output of which is connected to intermittently operate a suitable indicator such as a lamp.

The output characteristics of the capacitor firing network is analyzed by a spark gap element intercom nected by the selection switch to the output of the main ignition charging capacitor or firing capacitor.

In accordance with a particularly novel and additional feature of the present invention, the spark gap unit is constructed with an outer enclosure having a small selected opening. This permits direct testing of the ignition system on the engine without any practical danger of generating explosions. Thus in the engine analysis, one must consider the fact that the engine may be in a bilge or other type of enclosure within which explosive fumes have accumulated. Any exposed spark would, of course, create an extremely hazardous condition. Applicant has found that the present invention can be applied in place with a high degree of safety to ignition systems for internal combustion engines such as in automobiles and recreation vehicles with minimum danger of creating an explosion while producing a detailed dynamic analysis of the characteristics.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention. the complete analyzing apparatus includes the dynamic system analyzer mounted within a suitable housing device with external identifying indicia means for indicating proper power or battery connection and with separate connections being provided for separate connection of the analyzer to the ignition system, the output of the distributor and to the auxiliary spark gap device. In a particularly practical unit, a rotary or other selection switch, having an externally available operator. provides for the desired circuit connection of the analyzer. Tap means are provided for selectively connecting of the battery as a power supply, with additional tap means provided for efiecting the desired analyzer connection. A single common input-output function tap is provided. The function tap constitutes the input connection for analyzing of the output of the triggering or distributing generators and constitutes the output signal for the several other analyses which are made with the present invention. In addition to this unit a separate meter is provided to permit static testing of the output of the voltage and resistance characteristics of the circuit, with a special energy adaptor being provided to permit selected connection of the output of the capacitor charging circuit into a standard meter.

Although the various circuits can be formed of various well-known and any desired construction to provide proper functioning, those described and shown in connection with the preferred embodiment provide certain advantages and novel construction features and are more fully developed hereinafter in connection with such description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The drawings furnished herewith illustrate a preferred construction of the present invention in which the above advantages and features are clearly disclosed as well as others which will be readily understood from the following description of such embodiment.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of an outboard motor boat including a stern drive and diagrammatically illustrating the interconnection of the ignition analyzer of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged vertical section through a spark gap indicator for connection in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit diagram of a preferred construction of the ignition system analyzer; and

FIG. 4 illustrates a voltage meter specially constructed for conjoint use with the ignition analyzer.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT Referring to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1 the invention is shown applied to a marine propulsion system including a pleasure boat I which is propelled by a stern drive unit 2. An internal combustion engine 3 is mounted inboard of the stern of the boat I and coupled in any conventional manner to drive the stern drive unit 2. The internal combustion engine 3 is provided with a capacitor discharge ignition system 4 of a battery driven variety and is normally connected to a battery 5 for deriving energy to fire the engine 3. The engine 3, of course, may be provided with an alternator for continuously charging of the battery 5 and the like in accordance with any well-known construction and such detail is not disclosed or or described herein. The output of the ignition 4 system is coupled through a distributor 6 for transfer of energy to the spark plugs 7. The distributor 6 includes a trigger or switch unit 8 which generates pulse signals operative to actuate a solid-state switch such as a controlled rectifier. not shown, and thereby selectively tire and transfer the energy from a capacitor 9 through the distributor to the appropriate spark plug 7. Capacitor 9 is normally connected to the distributor 6 through a pulse transformer 9a. with the output connected through suitable high voltage towers 6a to the spark plugs 7.

The capacitor discharge ignition system can take any one of a variety of forms. For example, the charging circuit may be as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,955 to Minks or US. Pat. No. 3.696.257 to Shano as previously described. Similarly, the distributing triggering circuit 8 may be specially constructed to provide for corresponding interrelated actuation of the discharge circuit and the charging circuitry for example as shown in US. Pat. No. 3.502.955 to Minks and U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,257 to Shano. In all such circuits, operation is similar in that the capacitor 9 is charged in response to initiation of start pulse to the charging circuit from the circuit 8 and simultaneously, the capacitor 9 is discharged to fire the spark plugs with the discharge circuit thereafter automatically establishing a blocking condition.

In accordance with the present invention, an ignition system dynamic analyzer I0 is provided which may be employed with the ignition system mounted in the normal manner within the boat. In addition. a static analyzing meter 11 (FIG. 4) is provided to further check the system if a fault is indicated by the dynamic testing.

Generally. the analyzer includes an enclosing housing with the necessary connections and controls provided on the front panel. In particular a pair of input terminals 12 are provided for supplying DC power to the analyzer l0, and is especially constructed to permit connection as by special leads 13 to the boat battery. In addition, analyzer I0 includes a plurality of connecting jacks or other terminal means. including a pair of ground terminals I4 and 15 to one side of the terminals l2 and a third ground terminal 16 to the rightside of the battery terminals. A common function terminal 17 is provided for providing input-output connections. In addition, a further pair of output terminals 18 and 19 are provided as special output function terminals. These several terminals are provided to adapt the analyzer It) to provide for dynamic checking of a plurality of ignition systems, in particular both the charging level and triggering aspects of such ignition systems. A selection switch 20 is centrally mounted on the front panel and is selectively movable between an off position and six selection positions. which are particularly related to the preferred circuitry shown in FIG. 3 and more fully described hereinafter.

Generally, terminal 17 defines a common inputoutput function control. Thus if it is desired to check the charging circuitry of the capacitor discharge ignition 4, the distributor trigger circuit 8 connection is removed and an auxiliary positive signal source is derived from the analyzer jack 17 to the ignition system via a jack lead 21. Thus the analyzer 10 is preferably provided with a plurality of similar jack and snap connection leads 21 which are color coded and also numbered or lettered in accordance with the position and location of the jacks to provide for a convenient method of in structing the operator in connection with checking of the ignition systems.

In addition, a special spark gap unit 22 is connected to the high voltage input tower of the distributor unit 8 and thus to the main ignition capacitor in series with the high voltage induction coil or transformer which is schematically shown in FIG. I. The ignition analyzer includes a main power switch 23 which controls the basic interconnection of power from the battery 5 to the analyzer 10. Thus, the circuit lead connections are preferably made before the power is turned on. A separate test switch 24 is actuated and a trigger pulse signal is generated at the function terminal 17 which is applied to the CD ignition system for providing periodic discharge of the capacitor 9. Thus. if the ignition system charging and discharge circuit are functioning properly. the capacitor 9 will be periodically charged through the normal charging circuit and then discharged as a result of the receipt of a trigger signal via the lead 21 to develop a spark within the special unit 22.

If this part of the circuit is functioning properly then the trigger unit 8 can be separately checked.

Thus, the function terminal 17 is disconnected from the capacitor discharge ignition system 4 and connected directly to the output of the trigger unit 8. The engine is slowly turned over. If the trigger unit 8 is functioning properly, actuation of the test switch 24 will result in intermittent energization of the indicating lamp 25. The output of the trigger unit 8 thus drives the analyzer I0 and particularly a circuit which simulates the ignition system 4 and thus provides a check of the trigger circuit 8.

If both of the units appear to be operating properly the error obviously is in the ignition coil which can be checked through a separate meter as hereinafter described which is provided as part of the ignition analyzer 10.

The dynamic analyzer 10 is further provided with a power-on light or indicator. such as a lamp 26. In addition to ensure that the error is not in the dynamic analyzer. a special system check switch 27 is provided and connected to actuate the trigger testing circuitry and directly drive the lamp or other indicator if the trigger test circuits are functioning properly. Actuation of the test switch 24. with the circuit otherwise disconnected from an ignition system for analyzing. will result in an audible hum as a result of the basic converter circuit operation. as presently described.

In addition. the dynamic analyzer includes a battery connection indicator, such as a lamp 28. Thus as noted in FIG. 1, the terminals 12 are marked pulse and minus and the analyzer 10 is polarity sensitive. If the battery is reverse connected to the analyzer 10, power is not supplied as the result of a special by-pass circuit. However, to ensure that the operator does not accidently insert the reverse connection and then attempt to use the analyzer 10 without checking the operation. the lamp 28 is provided to positively bring such error to his attention.

The special indicator 22 as more clearly shown in FIG. 2 is especially constructed to permit use of the ignition analyzer 10 directly in a boat and particularly within a confined area such as a bilge or the like wherein dangerous accumulation of explosive fumes may be encountered. Thus, the spark gap unit 22 includes an outer housing or shell 29 which may be formed of a suitable plastic material or the like with opposed spark gap leads or electrodes 30 projecting inwardly from the opposite ends and terminating in a predetermined gap 300 within the housing 29. The electrodes 30 are connected by suitable insulated leads to ends connectors shown as a suitable jack 31 adapted to be connected to the high voltage tower of the ignition transformer. An alligator clip 32 is connected to the opposite end to permit connection of the opposite end to a suitable ground connection or the like. In accordance with the present invention the enclosing housing 29 includes a very minute opening 33 which is especially selected to permit the are within the enclosure and the escape of the resulting products without permitting significant entry of an explosive environment or propagation of the arc outwardly of the housing 29 into the environment with the resulting combustion of the gases in the surrounding environment.

Referring to the drawing and particularly to FIG. 3. a schematic of the ignition tester analyzer is illustrated in a preferred construction with the battery 5 connected to the terminals 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the positive terminal 12 is connected to supply positive power to the circuit through a fuse 34 with the jack 16 connected to the output side of the fuse 34 to provide a fused positive signal terminal 16.

The polarity indication lamp 28 is connected in series with a diode 34a across the power supply terminals 12 and the fuse 34. With the battery 5 properly connected as shown. the diode 340 blocks the current through the indicating branch and lamp 28 is held off. If the battery 5 is inserted with the opposite polarity from that shown and thus improperly connected. the diode 34a conducts to illuminate lamp 28 and indicate the erroneous connection.

The one jack 12 is connected as a common ground to the jacks I4 and 15. Thus the jacks 14 through 16 are power connecting jacks. The jacks 17 through 19 are function jacks as hereinafter described in connection with the illustrated embodiment of the invention.

The circuit in FIG. 3 is shown generally brokendown to include a main on-off power control section 35 connected to the fused terminal 12 through the main on-off switch 23. A blocking diode 36 is connected in series with the switch 23 to prevent application of power to the circuit if the battery 5 is improperly introduced into the circuit. The lamp 26 is connected across the incoming power supply to the output side of the diode 36 and thus is illuminated when the battery is properly introduced and the power switch is turned on. This in turn provides power to the balance of the circuits.

The circuit further includes an AC or dual polarity pulse source 38 connected to the power supply and particularly the output side of the detection and control section 35 by the test switch 24. Thus, the source 38 is energized by operation of the test switch 24.

The test switch 24 is preferably a spring loaded switch unit having a manually controlled actuator of spring-loaded contact 24a which is spring biased to an open position with respect to a fixed contact 24b. The test switch 24 must therefore be held in closed position to maintain energization of the source 38. Basically, the source 38 is a converting means adapted to be coupled to the DC supply and producing an alternating output to provide the desired positive and negative pulse signals for operating of the ignition analyzer circuitry and the capacitor discharge ignition system 4, as more fully developed hereinafter.

The analyzer 10 further includes a pair of trigger pulse coupling circuits 39 and 40 interconnected through the selection switch unit 20 to a driving circuit 41 for the distributor test lamp 25. The circuit 39 is especially constructed to test distributor pulse generators such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3.696.257 while the circuit 40 provides a corresponding output for testing the output of the distributor circuit such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3.502.955.

In addition, an alternator driven test circuit 42 is provided and connected into the circuit through the selection switch unit 20 to be driven from the basic source or unit 38. The circuit 42 is employed in connection with alternator driven capacitor discharge ignition systems and in particular provides a means for simulating the output of the alternator for charging of a capacitor of such a system with suitable means provided for discharging of the capacitor.

Finally. a tachometer check circuit 43 is also shown in the preferred construction and selectively connected to the input power supply by the selection switch unit 20 to permit checking of tachometers employed with capacitor discharge ignition systems and the like and particularly those which are driven by the pulse output from the capacitor discharge ignition systems.

The subcircuits or elements 38 43 thus form the basic components which are selectively interconnected with the ignition components to provide for selective dynamic testing of the various components.

The illustrated selection switch unit 20 is a multiple contact wafer type unit having a rotary input for selectively interconnecting 0f the various contact terminals. The switch unit is diagrammatically illustrated in FIG. 3 as including a pair of different sized wafers 44 and 45 to permit simplified illustration of the switching unit. Generally. the wafer unit 44 and 45 will include a plu rality of stacked elements with the several contacts suitable constructed and arranged to produce the circuit connections and as hereinafter described. As illustrated for purposes of discussion and explanation. the wafer switch unit 20 includes a first wiper 46 forming a common function output to the terminal 17. The wiper 46 is coupled to a drive shaft 47 which in turn is actuated by a rotating disc 48 having an indicating pointer 48a. as shown in FIG. 1. Contact wiper 46 is selectively positioned in engagement with any one of six different function contacts, the function of which is more fully developed hereinafter. In addition the switch unit includes a pair of wipers or contacts 49 and 490. which are alternately positioned between a pair of contacts to provide selective circuit connections as also hereinafter described. A third wiper or contact 50 provides selective connection between two of the selection switch terminals when the control is moved from the off to the first position.

More particularly in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the basic signal source circuit 38 is a free running relaxation oscillator having its input connected to the power supply through the test switch 24. The illustrated circuit includes a unijunction relaxation oscillator consisting of a unijunction transistor 51 periodically driven on and off through a conventional network including a resistor 52 in series with a capacitor 53, with the junction thereof connected to the emitter 54 of the unijunction transistor 51. lnterbase electrode resistors 55 and 56 connect the corresponding electrodes to the DC. power supply lines, with an output or signal line 57 taken from the topside of the base resistor 56. The unijunction oscillator functions in the conventional manner to establish a series of trigger pulses at line 57 whenever the test switch 24 is closed. These signals are employed to drive the alternator circuit 42.

The unijunction oscillator source 38 further controls a switching and driving circuitry to produce additional output signals. In particular, a delayed negative pulse signal is generated in spaced timed relation to the output of the unijunction transistor oscillator as follows. A switching transistor 58, shown as an NPN type has its emitter to collector circuit connected to the power supply in parallel with the unijunction transistor 51. Thus the collector is connected to the positive side in series with a pair of resistor 59 and 60. The emitter is connected to the negative or common ground line in series with a specially selected resistor 61. The base of the transistor 58 is connected through a coupling resistor 62 to the positive power supply and thus would normally be biased on. The base, however. is also connected through a steering diode 63 to the emitter of the unijunction transistor 51. Thus when the unijunction transistor 51 conducts, the emitter drops essentially to ground potential with the capacitor 53 fully discharged. This, in turn, drops the potential at the base of the transistor 58 causing it to turn off. This action is further ensured by a capacitor 64 connected in parallel with the resistor 61 and also connected to be charged from the positive supply line through a resistor 65 and a steering diode 66. With the transistor 58 off, the capacitor 64 will charge to the level determined by the voltage dividing action of the resistors 61 and 65. The resistor 61 is selected to be slightly larger than the resistor 65 and to establish a pulse width which is thirty to fifty percent of the total cycle duration. Thus when the base of the transistor is pulled down by the firing of the unijunction transistor 51, the transistor 58 is positively turned off until such time as the capacitor 53 charges to back bias the diode 63. At that time the voltage on the base rises to the level determined by the value of resistance 62 which is selected as a very high resistance element.

Consequently the base rises above the positive charge on the capacitor 64 and the transistor 58 conducts.

An output switching transistor 67. shown as an NPN type, has its emitter connected to the output side of the diode 66 and its base connected to the topside of the resistor 60. Thus when the transistor 58 is turned on, emitter to base current flow is in turned created and turns on transistor 67. The collector of the transistor 67 is connected to simultaneously drive a pair of output transistors 68 and 69 and also to provide additional charging current to the unijunction transistor. via a coupling resistor 70 and a steering diode 71. Thus, once the transistor 58 is switched on to generate a positive output signal via the transistors 68 and 69 the charging rate of capacitor 53 is increased.

The transistor 68 is shown as an NPN type. and transistor 67 is shown as a PNP type. The transistor 68 has its base connected through a coupling resistor 72 to the collector of the transistor 67. The collector to emitter circuit is connected across the incoming power supply through the test circuit 24 with an emitter resistor 73 connected between the emitter and the common ground. A coupling capacitor 74 is connected to the emitter of the emitter follower transistor 68 and provides a output signal at a predetermined time after the unijunction transistor 51 has established an output pulse signal. The output signal is connected through a diode 75 as a pulse signal upon charging of the capacitor 74. When the transistor 68 turns off, the capacitor 74 discharges through the emitter resistor 73 and a dis charge diode 76 connected across the resistor 73 and the capacitor 74. Simultaneously with the generation of the pulse signal at the follower transistor 68, the transistor 69 is turned on and completes an output circuit through a resistor 76a which is connected into the circuit through the selection switch 20.

More particularly with the selection switch unit 20 connected to the number one position. the pulse source 38 is connected to actuate the alternator drive circuit 42, as follows. The switch unit 20 includes a contact 77 connected by the wiper 50 to a contact 78 with the switch unit rotated to the first position, as shown in full line illustration. The contact 77 is connected to the output terminal lead 57 of the unijunction transistor 51. The interconnected contact 78 is connected via a signal lead 79 as an input signal to the circuit 42. The output of the unijunction transistor 51 which appears at line 57 is connected to trigger and initiate a cycle of operation to cyclically operate the circuit 42.

The circuit 42 is a triggered blocking oscillator circuit 80 generally constructed in accordance with the teaching of the blocking oscillator circuit of the US. Pat. No. 3.502.955. Thus, the blocking oscillator circuit 80 includes a pair of Darlington connected transistor 81 connected across the incoming power supply 35 to the output side of the diode 36. The transistors 81 are connected in a series charging circuit with a coupling transformer 82 and a saturable cutoff transformer 83 having a primary which is connected in parallel with the primary of the transformer 82. The transistors 81 are biased on through special biasing circuits similar to that shown in the above patent and connected in a feedback network including the secondary of the transformer 83. Thus a controlled rectifier 84 is connected in series with the secondary of the transformer 83 and a coupling resistor 84a across the base to emitter circuitry of the Darlington circuit 81. The input transistor of the Darlington pair 81 and the control rectifier 84 are simultaneously driven on to initiate a charging cycle. Thus a pair of pulse transformers 85 and 86 are provided with the respective secondaries connected across the base to emitter circuit of the one Darlington pair transistor 81 and across the gate to cathode circuit of the control rectifier 84. The primary windings 89 and 90 of the transformer 85 and 86 are connected in series between the line 79 and the common return line 79a of the circuit. The line 79 as previously noted is connected to the output of the pulse forming of the circuit 38 through the selection switch unit 20 with the latter in the first position. Suitable resistor diode networks are connected in the circuits of the secondaries 87 and 88 and in the feedback network to maintain the desired proper operation of the blocking oscillator under normal operating condition. The various components of the blocking oscillator 80 are particularly selected to generate an output signal in the transformer 82 which closely follows the initial portion of the conventional permanent magnet alternator widely employed in alternator driven capacitor discharge ignition systems. Thus such alternators do not produce a true sine wave output but a rather steeply distorted alternating wave which can be closely approximated by the blocking oscillator circuit.

The output therefore closely simulates the output of the alternator at least during the significant charging portion of the cyle. The transformer secondary 91 of the transformer 82 is connected in series with a diode 92 to the output jacks l8 and 19 of the analyzer 10. In addition, a small capacitor 93 is connected in parallel with the diode 92. The capacitor 93 is selected to allow a very small portion of the negative cycle generated when the blocking oscillator turns off to produce a small negative pulse signal across the jacks 18 to 19, and permits testing of ignition system such as shown in the previously identified patent application. The output jacks l8 and 19 are connected through suitable coupling leads to the ignition system and particularly to the input side of the main capacitor in place of the normal alternator connection. The circuit 42 thus replaces the alternator and provides a positive charging signal to first charge the main firing capacitor 9 to a selected level and shortly thereafter a negative pulse signal which is passed as a result of the capacitor 93 to trigger the controlled rectifier of this CD ignition system and discharges the main capacitor of the ignition system through the spark gap unit 22. Thus if the capacitor charging circuit and discharging circuit are functioning properly a spark is generated.

The spark gap unit 22 is installed with the jack connected to the high voltage tower of the ignition transformer and the opposite side connected to engine ground. The input leads from the alternator to the switch box are removed and replaced with connecting leads from the jacks l8 and 19. The power is of course turned on and the test button switch 24 closed. If the system is in proper functioning order, a spark will be generated in the spark gap unit 22 indicating proper system operation. If a spark is not obtained. it indicates that either the switch box or the ignition coil are defective. This can be checked as hereinafter described by the use of separate meter assembly or unit. If the analyzer indicates proper functioning and ignition is still not obtained, the windings of the alternator are separately checked with the separate meter. The other components, of course. can also be checked, if all of the electrical components appear to be operating.

In some alternator driven systems. as heretofore discussed. and, for example, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,566.!88 a separate trigger pulse circuit is employed for discharging of the ignition system. For those systems the alternator output terminals or jacks l8 and 19 are connected to the switch box to replace the normal charging circuit from the alternator. The trigger input is derived from the common analyzer function terminal or jack 17, which is connected by a suitable connecting lead to the trigger terminal on the switch box. The terminal 17 is connected to a switch contact 94 which in turn is connected to the common wiper contact 46. In the first position, the contact 46 is aligned with and makes contact with a terminal 95 which, in turn, is connected to the output of the source 38 and particular is connected via a lead to the output diode of the transistor 68 of source 38.

As previously noted, the source 38 functions through the control of the unijunction oscillator circuit to generate a pulse at the output lead 57 which is connected through the switch terminals 77 and 78 to initiate operation of the circuit 42 which simulates the charging cycle of the alternator. Consequently, the capacitor of the ignition system is charged from the output at terminals or jacks l8 and 19. The initiation of the pulse signal by the unijunction oscillator also drives off the delay switching transistor 58 which is held off for a pre determined time period equal to thirty to fifty percent of the pulse duration after which it automatically turns on and through the transistor 67 actuates the transistors 68 to establish an output pulse which is transmitted via the diode 75 and terminal to the wiper 46 and common function contact 94 to the jack 1? thereby introducing a pulse signal to the switch box to discharge the capacitor 9 into the pulse of the spark gap unit 22 if indeed the system is operating properly.

If for any reason the dynamic test fails to produce a spark thereby indicating dynamic failure, the ignition system may be further static tested by the separate meter 11 to determine whether in fact the ignition switch box or the transformer is faulty. lf the total ignition system then checks out proper, it would indicate that the error is in the stator circuit or the trigger circuit. The stator coils can be checked through the use of the static meter ll particularly for grounds and open circuits. The trigger circuit can be checked by merely inserting of the spark gap into the trigger coil and manually operating the engine to indicate whether or not a spark is obtained. The static test can also be applied to the trigger circuit to determine whether or not the trigger coil of the alternator is open or grounded.

The circuit 42 thus provides a simulated alternator circuit which individually and in combination with the source 38 permits essential testing of various alternator driven capacitor discharging ignition systems. Most permanet magnet alternators generate similar output charging currents and consequently the unit can be readily applied to the various units. lt is. however, desirable constructed to conform to the characteristics of a desired commercial unit. for example. for a given manufacturer to thereby permit highly accurate analysis of the corresponding ignition systems.

The present invention provides a dynamic test in that it provides the actual function of making a visual spark which permits evaluation of the ignition ability of the system. Further through the separate meter system. as hereinafter described. it also permits evaluation of the output in energy levels to determine the precise characteristic of the system.

In the illustrated second selection switch position. analyzer i is adapted to drive a capacitor discharge ignition system such as shown in US. Pat. No. 3,502,955 to Minks to determine whether or not the capacitor is being charged from the battery and at a proper level by discharging of such circuit through a positively established trigger pulse from the analyzer to the capacitor discharge ignition system. Thus in the second position, the switch unit rotates the common wiper 46 into engagement with a contact 96 which is connected by a jumper lead 97 to the contract 77 and therefore directly to the output of the unijunction oscillator lead 57 of circuit 38. The output pulse is thus supplied via the common function terminal 94 to the jack 17. Although the power pulse is also applied to the terminal 77 the rotation of the switch unit opens the circuit of terminal 77 to terminal 78 by movement of the wiper contact 50, thereby removing power from the circuit 42. in this position. the analyzer 10 is solely employed to generate the necessary time spaced pulse signals at the common terminal or jack 17 which is connected through a proper lead to the trigger input of the switch box for the capacitor discharge ignition system. in this test, the spark gap unit 22 is connected between the high voltage transformer tower and ground to substitute the special spark unit 22 for the ignition output. The trigger lead is separated from the distributor unit 8 and replaced with the connection of a special test lead 21 to the jack ]7. The switch unit 20, as previously noted. is in the number two position. The ignition key of the ignition unit is turned on along with the power button switch 24 of the analyzer 10. The turning on of the ignition key should charge the capacitor 9 of the discharge ignition system. When the test button switch 24 is actuated a series of pulses is generated from the analyzer 10 to the switch box causing it to periodically be triggered to discharge. Between the discharge periods. the main capacitor 9 should charge through the normal circuitry. If a spark appears in the spark gap unit 22, the box and associated transformer coils are good. if a spark does not appear, the system is analyzed through the use of the meter 11 to determine whether or not it is the switch box or the coil which is in need of repair. The trigger circuit may be analyzed with the selection switch unit 20 in the number 5 position and consequently this part of the description of the circuit is subsequently set forth.

In the third position of the selection switch unit 20 the output of the circuit or source 38 is interconnected for driving of an alternate capacitor discharge ignition system such as that shown in U.S. Pat. N0. 3,696,257 to Shano. Thus in the third switch position, the common wiper contact 46 moves into engagement with a contact 98 of the switch unit 20 which is connected via a resistor 76a to the transistor 69 via a third output line 99 of the source 38. Thus as previously described this circuit provides a ground return via the transistor 69 which is selectively turned on and off by the cascaded energization of the transistors 58 and 67. As previously noted, firing of unijunction relaxation oscillator actuates transistors 58 and 67 to deenergize transistor 69. A predetermined time thereafter, the transistor 58 again turns on to drive the transistor 67 on. thereby 14 connecting power from the output side of test switch 24 through diode 66 and the emittepcollector circuit of the transistor 67 to the base circuit of the transistor 69, thereby controlling transistor 69 and the completion of the ground return circuit through the resistor 76a.

This ground return circuit is thus completed through the switch unit 20 and particularly contact 98 and common wiper 46 to the common function contact 94 which is connected to the common function jack 17. This, in turn, is connected to the trigger terminal of the capacitor discharge ignition system and in particular provides a complete circuit to complete the input to the switching circuitry to initiate a charging cycle which, as previously noted, simultaneously initiates a discharge pulse signal to discharge the energy stored in the capacitor. Thus if the charging circuit of this capacitor discharge ignition system is operating properly a spark will appear in the spark gap unit 23. If the system is not operating properly the spark will not appear and the system should then be checked with the static meter 1 l to determine whether or not the switch box or the coil unit is defective.

In summary, with switch unit 20 in the third position, the output of the source 38 creates a series of pulse sig nals coupled by the switch to the common function terminal 17, which is applied to the ignition system circuit in place of the breaker-pointless distributor unit 8. The resistor 76a is specially selected to provide a matching impedance characteristic to that of the input oscillator of US. Pat. No. 3,696,257. This ensures that the input signal to the system is essentially that of the actual ignition unit such that the firing to form a spark in the analyzer unit 22, one can with a great deal of confidence assume that the switch box is in proper function and working order. If a spark is not obtained, the system is analyzed by the meter 1 l to determine whether the switch box 4 or the coil as such is defective.

As previously noted, in addition to the discharging of a capacitor through a distributor for a multiple cyclinder engine, a breakerless systems may advanagetially provided employing a separate trigger pulse generating signal systems operated in synchronism with the engine. Positions 4 and 5 are selected to provide accurate analysis of two different trigger pulse systems and in particular such as shown in previously referred to US. Pat. Nos. 3,696,257 and 3,502,955.

Thus in the fourth switch position, the analyzer 10 is connected to check the characteristic of the magneti cally responsive diflerential amplifier trigger source such as shown in US. Pat. No. 3,696,257. To analyze this system, the normal ignition terminal lead is removed from the unit 8 and interconnected through a special lead 21 to the function terminal or jack 17. The output of the trigger unit 8 is now applied to the analyzer 10. The wiper contact 46 engages the contact 100 and provides for transfer of energy into the analyzer which is connected to drive the associated coupling circuit 39 via a lead 101.

The output of circuit 39 is connected through the selection switch unit 20 to drive the indicating circuit 41. Thus the circuit 39 includes a resistor 102 connected between the lead 101 and a power supply lead 103 which is connected to a contact 104 of the selection switch unit 20. The contact 104 is connected by the wiper 49 to a contact 105 or a spaced contact 107 connected in common to a power lead I06 from the positive side of the ouput of the power indicating circuit 35 and particularly the diode 36. Thus the resistor 102 is connected in series between the positive side of the power supply and the trigger pulsing circuit to establish current flow through the circuit if the trigger unit 8 is functioning properly and providing a pulse output of sufficient magnitude to drive the circuit. In particular. the resistor 102 is especially selected to correspond to the driving resistance of the distributor unit 8 to thereby produce precise correspondence between the two systems.

A voltage dividing network consisting of a pair of resistors 108 and 109 are connected in parallel with the output of the trigger unit 8 with a voltage corresponding to that across the trigger unit 8 with the junction of the resistors being connected as the input to an indication driver transistor 110, shown as an NPN type. The emitter to collector circuit of the transistor 110 is connected between the common reference line of the analyzer and a terminal 111 of the selection switch unit which in the fourth position is connected via the wiper 49a to the contact 112. The contact 112 is connected by a common input line 113 as a driving input to the indicating circuit 41.

This circuit particularly includes a small counting circuit 114 having its input connected to the line 113 and thus driven to count the incoming pulse signals. lt divides the rapidly incoming pulse signals which result from the operation of the trigger circuit and reduces them to a substantially small number with the output of the counting circuit 114 connected to drive the indicating lamp 25. The counting circuit requires a low voltage supply and in the illustrated embodiment of the invention a Zener diode 115 in series with a resistor 116 and paralleled capacitor 117 is connected across the supply with the junction connected as the input of the counting circuit 114 to reduce the voltage to the required level. Thus the counting circuit may require a 5 volt input and the Zener diode may be selected to establish and maintain such input.

The lamp 25 is connected to the power supply in series with a Darlington transistor switch unit 118, the input of which is connected across the output of the counting circuit. Thus each selected number of input pulses to the counting circuit actuates. the switch 118 to result in corresponding illumination of lamp 25. The lamp 25 will blink on and off if the trigger circuit is functioning properly to drive the circuit 39.

In a distributor test, the power switch 23 is closed to supply power to the circuits of the analyzer and the related engine 3 is operated by the starter, without actually starting the engine. If the distributor functions at cranking speed to properly trigger the circuit. one can be assured that it will properly function under operating condition. lf the light remains on or off, the distributor circuit needs to be replaced. Thus the output of the counter may initially be in either one of two logic states and consequently provide for continuous illumination or no illumination and it is the blinking which directly indicates the condition of the distributor circuit in the illustrated embodiment.

The alternate circuits such as shown in US. Pat. No. 3,502,955 are similarly checked in the next or fifth position of the analyzer selection switch unit in the illustrated embodiment of the invention through a connection to coupling or load matching circuit 40, as follows.

ln the fifth switch position. the selection switch unit 20 interconnects common wiper contact 46 to a contact 120 which is connected via a lead 121 to the coupling or load matching circuit 40. 5 The coupling circuit 40 includes an input transformer 122 having a specially selected primary 123 connected in series with the line 121 to the common ground reference of the analyzer circuit. The primary 123, in particular. is selected to precisely match the load impedance applied to the trigger output of the pulse driven transformer system. Thus, in US. Pat. No. 3,502,955. individual pulse transformers are series connected and employed to correspondingly and simultaneously turn on a capacitor charging circuit and fire a controlled rectifier for discharging of the capacitor energy which had been previously stored therein. In accordance with the present invention. the transformer 122 is selected to match the impedance of those input transformers. The output of the transformer 122 is full wave rectified by a diode rectifier unit 124 with a resistor 124a equivalent to the load applied to the input transformers. Con sequently. if the trigger circuit properly drives the coupling circuit 40, it will properly drive the ignition system. The output of circuit 40 is connected to a line 125 for coupling through the selection switch unit 20 to the driving input line 113 of the indicator circuit 41. Thus. the lead 125 is connected to the terminal 126 of the selection switch unit 20 which is not connected by the common wiper lead 490 to the coupling terminal 112 which is connected as the input to the indicating circuit 41 via lead 113, as previously described.

Thus. if the trigger source or unit 8 is functioning properly to drive the transformers of the main capacitor charging and discharging circuit. it will also drive the coupling circuit 40 to actuate the indicating circuit 41 and the lamp will blink on and off. If it is not so functioning the trigger circuit is defective and should be replaced.

Thus, in summary. the analyzer is especially constructed for basic types of ignition systems and in the illustrated embodiment of the invention. the several circuits are especially provided to drive the main charging and discharging circuits as well as the trigger circuits of the particularly referred to type of system. To provide for variations in such circuits which might be employed the impedance matching units can. of course. be made adjustable to permit accurate matching to those particularly referred to as well as still other generally similar circuits.

Similarly. the alternator driven systems can employ variable elements to permit matching to any particular characteristic. Further. although the present analyzer is particularly directed to systems such as shown in the referred to patents. the analyzer may also be applied to other systems with the accuracy of analysis is directly related to the degree the characteristics are similar or dissimilar.

In addition, the dynamic analyzer 10 may be employed to check a pulse driven tachometer such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3.502.955. Thus. in the sixth position of the analyzer selection switch 20, the common wiper contact 46 interconnects the function terminal 17 to a sixth contact 127 which is connected to the tachometer drive check circuit 43. To check a tachometer, the function jack 17 is connected to the positive terminal on the tachometer and the ground side of the tachometer is similarly connected to the ground jack 14. The tachometer drive circuit 43 couples the tachometer to the analyzer power supply. Thus. a resistor 128 in series with a Zener diode 129 is connected between the positive side of the analyzer power supply circuit 35 and the common ground return. It thus establishes a reference voltage at the junction of the resistor 128 and the diode 129. A potentiometer circuit is connected between this junction and the terminal 127 and includes, in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, a fixed resistor 130 in series with a variable resistor 131 having a movable tap 132 connected to terminal 127. The tap 132 provides for a factory adjustment of the resistance. The tachometer must be disconnected from the normal ignition drive circuit in order to ensure proper introduction of the test signal into the tachometer. When the power switch 23 is turned on, the voltage applied establishes a related RPM reading. If the reading is within a given tolerance. the tachometer should be replaced or repaired. Thus. in a practical application, it may be made to read between forty-eight and fifty-two hundred revolutions per minute.

The illustrated selection switch unit 20 also provides an interconnection through check switch 27 for selfchecking of the analyzer 10. Thus, as shown in FIG. 3, switch 27 is a double pole. single throw switch unit having a first normally open switch 133 and a second normally open switch 134 connected to a common actuator 135 as shown by the dashed coupling lines in FIG. 3. The switch l33 connects the terminals 96 and 120, while switch 133 similarly connects the contacts 98 and l of the selection switch unit 20. This, in essence, interconnects outputs of the pulse source 38 as the input to the trigger checking circuits and particularly circuits 39 and 40, with the selection switch unit correspondingly positioned in the fourth and fifth positions. in a self-checking operation, the selection switch unit is turned to the first position with the battery properly connected to the analyzer l0 and with the power switch 23 on. The test button switch 24 is actuated and must be manually held closed for the duration of the test. as a result of the spring loading to a normally open position.

The test switch 27 is similarly constructed as a spring loaded device. Further. switches 24 and 27 are preferably sliding button switch devices as shown in FIG. 1, with the buttons oppositely positioned for directly opposite movement to minimize the erroneous selection of the self-test switch for the analyze switch.

If the converter 38 is working properly a low pitched noise will be heard as a result of the oscillator action of the source 38, in the number one position.

The output of the triggering circuits associated with positions four and five are checked by turning the selection switch unit 20 to a corresponding position and then actuating the system check switch 27 while simultaneously actuating of the test switch 24. Source 38 generates triggering pulses connected via switches 133 or 134 to drive the connected coupling circuit 39 or 40 and thereby the indicating circuit 41. Thus. in the fourth switch position. a signal from the transistor 69 of the source 38 is coupled through the switch contacts 133 to the lead l0] which. in turn, drives the circuit 39 the output of which is connected through the previously described switching circuit and contact 111 of unit 20 to drive the indicating circuit 4].

In the fifth switch position. the signal on lead 57 of source 38 is connected by contacts 134 to the selection contact and lead 121 to the input of the matching circuit 40, the output of which is connected by a lead 125 and the selection switch unit 20 to drive the circuit Thus in each position if the corresponding distributor test circuit is operating properly, the indicating lamp 25 will blink on and off.

The present invention thus provides a means for the complete dynamic testing of the various forms of ignition systems. As previously noted if, during the dynamic testing of an ignition system a fault appears. a further static check is preferably made with the special meter 11 which is preferably provided as part of the total ignition analyzing system, and with a special adapter 136 for meter 11 which permits convenient energy reading of the output of the main firing capacitor 9 of an ignition system 4.

As shown, the meter 11 is preferably constructed with four different output sections which permit selective reading and includes a resistance section 137, an AC voltage section 138, a DC voltage section 139 and a DC current reading section 140. An auxiliary test position 141 and a tachometer reading position 142 are also provided. The meter ll includes a housing [43 corresponding to that of analyzer l0 and having a similar rotary switch operator 144 which selectively connects the meter sections 137 142 to a set of input terminals or jacks 145. The meter 11 is essentially a standard peak reading voltmeter having the necessary usual internal components to permit reading of resistances, voltages and currents within preselected ranges.

in the case of an alternator drive system. the alternator structure as such should be tested. The resistance scale or section 137 provides a means to determine the resistance of the windings of the alternator. Depending upon the design. the windings may include one or more main capacitor charging windings and/or separate trigger windings. These can be readily calibrated and proper instructions given to permit ready checking of the characteristics. Thus. in the system employing a separate trigger winding and high and low speed windings, different scale factors will be employed to provide a direct readout on a common scale.

The DC voltage scale particularly includes an X80 setting which is a range of zero to eighty on the appropriate scale.

The special energy adapter unit 136 is provided for interconnection of the output of the analyzer 10 to the meter and particularly matches the system output to provide a direct peak reading of the energy level transferred from the corresponding main ignition capacitor 9. Thus, the adapter 136 has three terminals including a common terminal 146, a first capacitor level terminal 147 and a second capacitor level terminal 148. Thus. the various capacitor ignition systems may charge the capacitor 9 to different voltage levels. For example. in the systems such as that of US. Pat. No. 3,502.955 the capacitor may be charged to volts while in that of US. Pat. No. 3.696.257, it may be charged to 280 volts. The two power terminals provide selective circuit connections including appropriate capacitors 149 and 150 to convert the output of the main capacitor 9 into an equivalent energy level which, when applied to the input terminals of the meter ll, reads directly on the X80 DC voltage scale 15]. The input terminals 145 are properly connected to the meter mechanism by setting of the switch operator 144 to the X80 DC voltage scale 139. If the main capacitor 9 is appropriately charged. the meter will read between 40 and 70 on the scale.

The adapter 136 is connected to discharge the capac itor 9 through the primary winding of the ignition transformer or coil with the energy to charge the special capacitor 149 or 150 which provides the DC reading input to the meter. Thus the adapter 136 stores the energy output pulse which is passed by the primary winding and couples it through a very high impedance circuit into the meter. The primary winding of an ignition transformer is such that it essentially protects the circuit against damaging the switch box as a result of loose connections or the like. An ignition system for a given spark plug will generally require a predetermined energy level. For example. it is known that in the conventional internal combustion engine employed for outboard motors employing polar gap spark plugs and the like a 60 millijoules energy level is required for proper firing of the engine. Generally. the engine will operate satisfactorily if the element deviates between 40 and 70 milljoules. Some units will actuate or generate sparks below such low energy levels. For example. millijoules of energy may at least intermittently actuate the spark gap unit. However the meter reading will indicate the low energy level and will indicate that you are intermittently firing and that the switch box is actually misiiring. If the output of the switch box reads within a given range it indicates. of course. that the swtich box as such is in proper condition and that a faulty ignition transformer is probably why the system capacitor is not providing a spark in the spark gap unit 22. If no reading is obtained. the switch box is not being charged. if the static test indicates a proper ignition system, the ignition failure must be in some other part of the ignition system.

The present invention thus provides a very reliable and versatile ignition system analyzer which can be fully used by personnel with a very minimum amount of knowledge of electronics and even ignition systemsv All instructions and steps in use can be related through color coding and other visual instructions. The apparatus is relatively small and mobile and with the special spark gap unit can. with appropriate equipment maintenance. be readily employed within a boat without explosion danger resulting from accumulation of normal explosive fumes in the boat and test area. Further. the apparatus can. of course. be employed for bench test ing and the like as well as for in place operation or testing. The present invention. therefore, provides a means for essentially complete analysis of the ignition system in a rapid and simple procedure and thus is particularly adapted for commercial application.

Various modes of carrying out the invention are contemplated as being within the scope of the following claims. particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which is regarded as the invention.

1 claim:

I. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses.

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed trigger of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation,

said pulse source means includes a first electronic oscillating circuit establishing a plurality of output pulses, and a switching means is connected to said oscillating circuit and controlled thereby to establish a time delayed signal for a predetermined portion of each cycle.

2. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim I for driving of a permanent magnet alternator driven ignition system having a separate triggering alternator and wherein the apparatus includes an electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of a permanent magnet alternator and particularly the initial charging portion of each output cycle of the alternator, said electronic signal generator being a triggered device having a triggered input connected to the electronic oscillating circuit to provide timed triggering thereof, and said switching means establishing a triggering pulse to discharge the capacitor discharge ignition system.

3. The ignition analyzer of claim 2 wherein said selection means includes a position connecting the output of the pulse source means to the trigger input of the signal generator. a common function tap means. said selection means simultaneously connecting a second output of said pulse source means to said common function tap means and including means to generate the pulse signal a predetermined period of time after transmission of a pulse to said signal generator whereby the output of the signal generator provides a charging signal and the function tap means creates an appropriately timed trigger signal. the timing of said trigger signal being delayed within thirty to fifty percent of the duration of the total period of the alternator signal generator.

4. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system. and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation.

a static test apparatus having means to read a voltage and input converter means for converting the output energy stored in a capacitor to a related energy level suitable for ignition purposes. said input converter means having releasable connection means for connection to the capacitor.

5. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses.

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system.

a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation,

a battery input means connected to operate the pulse source. and a switch means in said battery input means to open the connection to the battery during connection and disconnection to the ignition system.

6. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation,

said spark gap means includes a pair of spaced electrodes for connection to the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system, a housing enclosing said spaced electrodes to confine an are formed between said electrodes, said housing having a small passageway to permit restricted gaseous movement while positively restricting the propagation of the are from the housing.

7. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation,

said spark gap means includes an enclosure with means permitting exit of are generated gaseous material and preventing the propagation of the are from within the enclosure.

8. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, wherein said pulse source means includes a relaxation oscillator for establishing a first output and a transistor switching means connected to said relaxation oscillator and including a pair of output transistors for establishing a second and third output. said oscillator including a first electronic oscillating circuit establishing a plurality of output pulses. a switching means connected to said oscillator and controlled thereby to establish a time delayed signal for a predetermined portion of each cycle.

said selection means including a rotary switch means for selectively connecting the three outputs of said source means to provide timed triggering of said Ignition system.

9. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system. and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and including an electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of an alternator suitable for charging ofa capacitor discharge ignition system, said electronic generator being a triggered device having a triggered input connected by said selection means to the output of the source means to provide timed triggering thereof.

10. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 9 wherein said electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of a permanent magnet alternator and particularly the initial charging portion of each output cycle of the alternator.

11. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 10 wherein said electronic signal generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation, said oscillator including output energy storage inductor means and a rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system.

12. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 1 I having a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals to generate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a gated switch for discharging of a capacitor of a capacitor discharge ignition system.

13. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 wherein said selection means includes means connecting said pulse source to establish a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse of the electronic signal generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.

14. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 having means connected to the inductor means to derive a delayed pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a gated switch.

15. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 wherein said electronic signal generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and a saturable reactor cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation. an output energy storage inductor including rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system, a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals and the load to generate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a switch for discharging of a capacitor ofa capacitor discharge ignition system. said pulse source establishing a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse to the electronic generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.

16. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses.

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation and including an impedance matching circuit having input terminal means for connection to a pluse source and establishing a selected load essentially corresponding to a load created by a preselected capacitor discharge ignition system, an indicating means connected to the output of the impedance matching circuit and driven in accordance with the timed output thereof 17. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 16 wherein said indicating means including a counting means to count the pulses of a preselected minimum amplitude transmitted by the matching circuit and establishing a corresponding reduced number of pulses, an indicator means connected to be driven from said counting device and providing an intermittent operation in accordance with the pulsed operation from the distributor circuit to thereby indicate the functioning of the distributor circuit.

18. The analyzer of claim 17 wherein said matching circuit includes an impedance transformer having a primary winding essentially corresponding to pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system. rectifying means connected to the output of the coupling transformer and including a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system. means connecting the output signal appearing across said output resistance load to the input of the counting device.

19. The analyzer of claim 18 wherein said matching circuit includes a coupling resistance connected to said input terminals and corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor, voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element. an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.

20. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality oftime spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system. and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, a tachometer circuit checking system signal source including a regulated voltage connected to a voltage supply and having a resistance coupling output, said selection means having a function tap for connection to a tachometer and selectively connecting said coupling output to said function tap whereby a regulated voltage is impressed upon said tachometer for calibrating of the reading of the tachometer.

21. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic power source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation and wherein said pulse source includes an oscillator establishing a plurality of time spaced pulses at a first pulse output line and a pair of timed switch transistors connected to the oscillator and establishing an output pulse at second and third pulse output lines,

a DC. input means including a power switch and a series diode to establish a polarity sensitive input,

a test switch connecting the DC. input means to the pulse source to drive said oscillator and said transistors,

said selection means being a rotary switch having contacts connected to said output lines and having a common function output terminal selectively connected to said second and third output lines,

a blocking oscillator signal generator having a gated input connected to said first output line and establishing an output in an output transformer having an initial portion corresponding to the output of a permanent magnet alternator. a diode connected in series with the transformer to produce a pair of output terminals. a reverse pulse capacitor connected in parallel with said diode a first impedance matching circuit having an input means connected to a contact of said switch for selective connection to said common function terminal and including a transformer and rectifier for establishing a load essentially corresponding to the load created by a preselected transformer input capacitor charging circuit.

a second impedance matching circuit having input means connected to a contact of said switch for Se lective connection to said common function terminal and including a switching transistor with a resistance input establishing a load corresponding to a preselected resistance input capacitor charging circuit.

a counting means to count input pulses and connected to contacts of said switch for selective connection to the first and second impedance matching circuits and driven in response to a selected minimum input signal. an indicating means connected to said counting means and intermittently operated in accordance with the pulsed operation.

22. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 21 including a static test switch having a meter input means, an adapter having a plurality ofindividual inputs and an output for releasable connection to the meter input means, said adapter having a plurality of capacitive conversion circuit means for series connection to the power capacitor and establishing an energy related output at said adapter output means related to the energy required for ignition systems to thereby provide common readout for said several conversion circuit means.

23. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses,

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system. and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation. and

said pulse source means is an oscillator. and a test switch connecting said oscillator to power, said oscillator generating an audible hum to indicate functioning thereof.

24. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses.

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and

said pulse source means is an oscillator. and a test switch connecting said oscillator to power, said oscillator generating an audible hum to indicate functioning thereof. and self-test switch means connected to said selection means for directly connecting the pulse source to said impedance matching means to check the functioning of the indicating means circuit.

25. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses.

a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means and an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and circuit connecting means for connecting of said spark gap means in series with the primary winding of the pulse transformer and the main firing capacitor.

26. An ignition system analyzer for checking or analyzing the operation of a plurality of different types of capacitor discharge ignition systems each of which includes a capacitor which is selectively discharged to transfer energy to the spark plugs of an engine. said systems including systems driven from a permanent magnet alternator and systems driven from a battery in combination with a DC. to DC. converter for charging of the capacitor to a selected level and all of said systerns including gated means for discharging of the capacitors with the gate signal being derived from the alternator or from a separate distributor driven pulse generating circuit. certain of said pulse generating circuits including transformer coupled control means and others including resistive coupled control means comprising a pulse source adapted to establish time spaced pulses and having a plurality of output means for interconnecting of said pulse signals to said ignition systems. a selection switch means having a plurality of movable contacts and having a plurality of fixed contacts interconnected between said pulse generating oscillator and the output taps for selectively enabling the output taps in accordance with the various systems and including a common function tap for connection to an ignition system. a power connection means including a positive polarity connector connected in series with a fuse to a main power switch. said power section including an output diode coupling said switch to establish a DC. power supply of a selective polarity. a plurality of common return connectors, a battery connection logic circuit connected directly between the output side of said fuse and the common return connector to provide an output signal in response to improper polarity battery connection. a power on indicator connected between the output side of the diode and the common return connectors to provide an indication of the completion of the input power connection. a manually operated test switch selectively connecting the positive power side of the supply to the pulse source. said test switch being continuously biased to an open position and requiring positive holding of the test switch in the closed position, said pulse source causing a detectable and audible signal upon closure of said test switch to thereby provide an audible indication of the satisfactory operating of the source circuit. an alternator pulse simulating generator connected to the power supply and having a triggered input. said selection switch unit selectively connecting said triggered input to said pulse source. said alternator pulse simulating generator having output terminals for selectively connecting of the output to charge a capacitor, an indicating means including a counting means for providing intermittent operation of a lamp. a first distributor coupling circuit having a transformer means for matching the impedance of a transformer pulse generator. said selection means connecting said transformer means to said common function input and the output of said coupling circuit to drive said counting means, a second distributor cou pling circuit including a resistance input. said selection switch unit connecting said resistance unit to said common function tap and the output of said coupling circuit to drive the counting means. and a second self-test switch connected to said selection switch unit and interconnecting the output of the oscillator to said contacts connected to the switch for selective connection to the input of said coupling circuits whereby simultaneous operation of said test switch and said system test switch with the selection switch unit providing connection to a coupling circuit will establish intermittent energization of said lamp if the circuit if functioning properly.

27. The ignition system analyzer of claim 26 having an auxiliary meter for detecting the energy output or the energy input to the meter. a meter adapter having output means connected to said meter and the input means for selective connection to the output of the ignition analyzer circuits and including a capacitor means adapted to be connected in series with the primary winding of an ignition pulse transformer and an ignition capacitor of the capacitor discharge ignition system and, said adapter capacitor being selected to store energy and provide a scaled energy output voltage signal to said meter in accordance with the charge on the ignition capacitor to thereby provide a direct output signal reading in accordance with the energy level output of the capacitor discharge ignition capacitor. said adapter having a common input for various ignition systems and having individual inputs for each capacitor discharge ignition system having a different operating voltage level whereby the output energy is correspondingly scaled for each ignition system.

28. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 26 wherein said pulse simulating generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and a separate cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation. said selection switch means having means to connect the triggered input to the pulse source. an output energy storage inductor including rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system, a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals and the load to generate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a negated switch for discharging of a capacitor of a capacitor discharge ignition system. and said pulse source including means establishing a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse to the pulse simulating generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.

29. The analyzer of claim 26 wherein the impedance transformer of said first coupling circuit includes a primary winding essentially corresponding to the pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system. rectifying means connected to the output of the first coupling transformer and driving a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system. means connecting the output signal appearing across said coupling resistance to the input of the counting means to provide a corresponding pulsed operation thereof.

30. The analyzer of claim 26 wherein said second coupling circuit includes a coupling resistance corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor. voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element. an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.

3]. The ignition analyzer of claim 26 including a tachometer circuit checking system signal source including a regulated voltage connected to said voltage supply and having a resistance coupling output, said selection switch means selectively connecting said output to said function tap whereby a regulated voltage is impressed upon said tachometer for calibrating of the reading of the tachometer.

32. In an ignition analyzer for analyzing of the functioning of a capacitor discharge ignition system employing a capacitor periodically charged from an energy source and discharged through a breakerless distributor driven circuit and having a breakerless pulse generator establishing a series of time spaced discharge control pulses to said driven circuit for discharging of said capacitor, the improvement comprising an impedance matching circuit having input terminal means for connection to the output of the distributor driven circuit and establishing a load essentially corresponding to the load created by a preselected capacitor discharge ignition system, and indicating means connected to the output of the matching circuit and driven in accordance with the timed output thereof.

33. The ignition analyzer of claim 32 wherein said indicating means including a counting means to count the pulses generated through the matching circuit and establishing a corresponding reduced number of pulses, an indicator driven from said counting device to provide an intermittent operation in accordance with the pulsed operation from the distributor circuit to thereby indicate the functioning of the distributor circuit.

34. The analyzer of claim 33 wherein said impedance matching circuit includes an impedance transformer having a primary winding essentially corresponding to the pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system. rectifying means connected to the output of the coupling transformer and driving a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system, means connecting the output signal appearing across said resistance load to the input of the counting device to provide a corresponding pulsed operation thereof.

35. The analyzer of claim 33 wherein said impedance matching circuit includes a coupling resistance connected to said input terminals and corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor. voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element. an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.

36. An ignition system analyzer for checking or analyzing the operation of a plurality of different types of capacitor discharge ignition systems each of which includes a capacitor which is selectively discharged to transfer energy to the spark plugs of an engine, said systems including pulse generating means including pulse coupling transformers and including resistive couplings, comprising a pulse source means including a relaxation oscillator and a switch means connected to said oscillator and having a plurality of output means for interconnecting of said pulse signals to said ignition systems, a counting means coupled to drive an indicating means at a selected periodic repetition rate, a manually operated test switch selectively connecting the positive power side of the supply to the oscillator, said pulse oscillator causig a detectable and ausible signal upon closure of said switch to thereby provide an audi- 30 ble indication of the satisfactory operating of the oscillator circuit, a first impedance matching circuit having a transformer means for matching the impedance of a transformer pulse generator, 21 second impedance matching coupling circuit including a resistance input, a selection switch means selectively connecting said impedance matching circuits to drive said counting means, and a second self-test switch connected to said selection switch means and selectively interconnecting the output of the pulse source means to the input of said impedance matching circuits and the output to the counting means whereby simultaneous operation of said test switch and said system test switch establishes intermittent energization of said indicating means if the corresponding matching circuit is functioning properly. a :r

UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION PATENT NO. 1 3,891,917

DATED June 24, 1975 INVENTOR(S) 2 MARK HARRIS It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below: I

Column 7, Line 10, cancel "pulse" and insert plus Column 14, Line 40, cancel "systems" and insert system Column 14, Line 40, cancel "advanagetially" and insert advantageously Column 22, Line 58, after"puls' cancel "of" and Claim 13 insert to Column 23, Line 56, cancel numeral "18" and Claim 19 insert l7 Column 26, Line 5, after"means" cancel "and" and Claim 25 insert to Column 27, Line 19, after"circuit' cancel "if" and Claim 26 insert is Column 29, Line 16, cancel "causig" and insert Claim 36 causing Column 29, Line 16, cancel "ausible" and insert Claim 36 audible Signed and Bealed this 1 sixth D y of January 1976 [SEAL ANE'SI.

RUTH C. MASON C. MARSHALL DANN Arresting Offic Commissioner nfParenrs and Trademarks 

1. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed trigger of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, said pulse source means includes a first electronic oscillating circuit establishing a plurality of output pulses, and a switching means is connected to said oscillating circuit and controlled thereby to establish a time delayed signal for a predetermined portion of each cycle.
 2. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 1 for driving of a permanent magnet alternator driven ignition system having a separate triggering alternator and wherein the apparatus includes an electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of a permanent magnet alternator and particularly the initial charging portion of each output cycle of the alternator, said electronic signal generator being a triggered device having a triggered input connected to the electronic oscillating circuit to provide timed triggering thereof, and said switching means establishing a triggering pulse to discharge the capacitor discharge ignition system.
 3. The ignition analyzer of claim 2 wherein said selection means includes a position connecting the output of the pulse source means to the trigger input of the signal generator, a common function tap means, said selection means simultaneously connecting a second output of said pulse source means to said common function tap means and including means to generate the pulse signal a predetermined period of time after transmission of a pulse to said signal generator whereby the output of the signal generator provides a charging signal and the function tap means creates an appropriately timed trigger signal, the timing of said trigger signal being delayed within thirty to fifty percent of the duration of the total period of the alternator signal generator.
 4. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load correspondiNg to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, a static test apparatus having means to read a voltage and input converter means for converting the output energy stored in a capacitor to a related energy level suitable for ignition purposes, said input converter means having releasable connection means for connection to the capacitor.
 5. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, a battery input means connected to operate the pulse source, and a switch means in said battery input means to open the connection to the battery during connection and disconnection to the ignition system.
 6. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, said spark gap means includes a pair of spaced electrodes for connection to the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system, a housing enclosing said spaced electrodes to confine an arc formed between said electrodes, said housing having a small passageway to permit restricted gaseous movement while positively restricting the propagation of the arc from the housing.
 7. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, said spark gap means includes an enclosure with means permitting exit of arc generated gaseous material and preventing the propagation of the arc from within the enclosure.
 8. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said caPacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, wherein said pulse source means includes a relaxation oscillator for establishing a first output and a transistor switching means connected to said relaxation oscillator and including a pair of output transistors for establishing a second and third output, said oscillator including a first electronic oscillating circuit establishing a plurality of output pulses, a switching means connected to said oscillator and controlled thereby to establish a time delayed signal for a predetermined portion of each cycle, said selection means including a rotary switch means for selectively connecting the three outputs of said source means to provide timed triggering of said ignition system.
 9. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connection means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and including an electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of an alternator suitable for charging of a capacitor discharge ignition system, said electronic generator being a triggered device having a triggered input connected by said selection means to the output of the source means to provide timed triggering thereof.
 10. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 9 wherein said electronic signal generator establishing an output simulating the output of a permanent magnet alternator and particularly the initial charging portion of each output cycle of the alternator.
 11. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 10 wherein said electronic signal generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation, said oscillator including output energy storage inductor means and a rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system.
 12. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 having a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals to generate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a gated switch for discharging of a capacitor of a capacitor discharge ignition system.
 13. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 wherein said selection means includes means connecting said pulse source to establish a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse of the electronic signal generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.
 14. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 having means connected to the inductor means to derive a delayed pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a gated switch.
 15. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 11 wherein said electronic signal generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and a saturable reactor cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation, an output energy storage inductor including rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system, a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals and the load to genErate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a switch for discharging of a capacitor of a capacitor discharge ignition system, said pulse source establishing a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse to the electronic generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.
 16. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and including an impedance matching circuit having input terminal means for connection to a pluse source and establishing a selected load essentially corresponding to a load created by a preselected capacitor discharge ignition system, an indicating means connected to the output of the impedance matching circuit and driven in accordance with the timed output thereof.
 17. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 16 wherein said indicating means including a counting means to count the pulses of a preselected minimum amplitude transmitted by the matching circuit and establishing a corresponding reduced number of pulses, an indicator means connected to be driven from said counting device and providing an intermittent operation in accordance with the pulsed operation from the distributor circuit to thereby indicate the functioning of the distributor circuit.
 18. The analyzer of claim 17 wherein said matching circuit includes an impedance transformer having a primary winding essentially corresponding to pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system, rectifying means connected to the output of the coupling transformer and including a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system, means connecting the output signal appearing across said output resistance load to the input of the counting device.
 19. The analyzer of claim 18 wherein said matching circuit includes a coupling resistance connected to said input terminals and corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor, voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element, an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.
 20. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, a tachometer circuit checking system signal source including a regulated voltage connected to a voltage supply and having a resistance coupling output, said selection means having a function tap for connection to a tachometer and selectively connecting said coupling output to said function tap whereby a regulated voltage is impressed upon said tachometer for calibratIng of the reading of the tachometer.
 21. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic power source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation and wherein said pulse source includes an oscillator establishing a plurality of time spaced pulses at a first pulse output line and a pair of timed switch transistors connected to the oscillator and establishing an output pulse at second and third pulse output lines, a D.C. input means including a power switch and a series diode to establish a polarity sensitive input, a test switch connecting the D.C. input means to the pulse source to drive said oscillator and said transistors, said selection means being a rotary switch having contacts connected to said output lines and having a common function output terminal selectively connected to said second and third output lines, a blocking oscillator signal generator having a gated input connected to said first output line and establishing an output in an output transformer having an initial portion corresponding to the output of a permanent magnet alternator, a diode connected in series with the transformer to produce a pair of output terminals, a reverse pulse capacitor connected in parallel with said diode, a first impedance matching circuit having an input means connected to a contact of said switch for selective connection to said common function terminal and including a transformer and rectifier for establishing a load essentially corresponding to the load created by a preselected transformer input capacitor charging circuit, a second impedance matching circuit having input means connected to a contact of said switch for selective connection to said common function terminal and including a switching transistor with a resistance input establishing a load corresponding to a preselected resistance input capacitor charging circuit, a counting means to count input pulses and connected to contacts of said switch for selective connection to the first and second impedance matching circuits and driven in response to a selected minimum input signal, an indicating means connected to said counting means and intermittently operated in accordance with the pulsed operation.
 22. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 21 including a static test switch having a meter input means, an adapter having a plurality of individual inputs and an output for releasable connection to the meter input means, said adapter having a plurality of capacitive conversion circuit means for series connection to the power capacitor and establishing an energy related output at said adapter output means related to the energy required for ignition systems to thereby provide common readout for said several conversion circuit means.
 23. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor diScharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and said pulse source means is an oscillator, and a test switch connecting said oscillator to power, said oscillator generating an audible hum to indicate functioning thereof.
 24. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means to an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and said pulse source means is an oscillator, and a test switch connecting said oscillator to power, said oscillator generating an audible hum to indicate functioning thereof, and self-test switch means connected to said selection means for directly connecting the pulse source to said impedance matching means to check the functioning of the indicating means circuit.
 25. An ignition analyzing apparatus for analyzing the functioning of capacitor discharge ignition systems comprising an electronic pulse source means adapted to establish a plurality of time spaced pulses, a selection means having a releasable connecting means for selectively connecting the output of said electronic pulse source means and an ignition system to provide timed triggering of said ignition system, and a portable spark gap means constructed to create a load corresponding to the load driven from the ignition system and adapted to be connected to said capacitor discharge ignition system and driven from the output of said capacitor discharge ignition system to produce a visual display of the operation, and circuit connecting means for connecting of said spark gap means in series with the primary winding of the pulse transformer and the main firing capacitor.
 26. An ignition system analyzer for checking or analyzing the operation of a plurality of different types of capacitor discharge ignition systems each of which includes a capacitor which is selectively discharged to transfer energy to the spark plugs of an engine, said systems including systems driven from a permanent magnet alternator and systems driven from a battery in combination with a D.C. to D.C. converter for charging of the capacitor to a selected level and all of said systems including gated means for discharging of the capacitors with the gate signal being derived from the alternator or from a separate distributor driven pulse generating circuit, certain of said pulse generating circuits including transformer coupled control means and others including resistive coupled control means comprising a pulse source adapted to establish time spaced pulses and having a plurality of output means for interconnecting of said pulse signals to said ignition systems, a selection switch means having a plurality of movable contacts and having a plurality of fixed contacts interconnected between said pulse generating oscillator and the output taps for selectively enabling the output taps in accordance with the various systems and including a common function tap for connection to an ignition system, a power connection means including a positive polarity connector connected in series with a fuse to a main power switch, said power section including an output diode coupling said switch to establish a D.C. power supply of a selective polarity, a plurality of common return connectors, a battery connection logic circuit connected directly between the output side of said fuse and the common return connector to provide an output signal in response to improper polarity battery connection, a power on indicator connected between the output side of the diode and the common return connectors to provide an indication of the completion of the input power connection, a manually operated test switch selectively connecting the positive power side of the supply to the pulse source, said test switch being continuously biased to an open position and requiring positive holding of the test switch in the closed position, said pulse source causing a detectable and audible signal upon closure of said test switch to thereby provide an audible indication of the satisfactory operating of the source circuit, an alternator pulse simulating generator connected to the power supply and having a triggered input, said selection switch unit selectively connecting said triggered input to said pulse source, said alternator pulse simulating generator having output terminals for selectively connecting of the output to charge a capacitor, an indicating means including a counting means for providing intermittent operation of a lamp, a first distributor coupling circuit having a transformer means for matching the impedance of a transformer pulse generator, said selection means connecting said transformer means to said common function input and the output of said coupling circuit to drive said counting means, a second distributor coupling circuit including a resistance input, said selection switch unit connecting said resistance unit to said common function tap and the output of said coupling circuit to drive the counting means, and a second self-test switch connected to said selection switch unit and interconnecting the output of the oscillator to said contacts connected to the switch for selective connection to the input of said coupling circuits whereby simultaneous operation of said test switch and said system test switch with the selection switch unit providing connection to a coupling circuit will establish intermittent energization of said lamp if the circuit if functioning properly.
 27. The ignition system analyzer of claim 26 having an auxiliary meter for detecting the energy output or the energy input to the meter, a meter adapter having output means connected to said meter and the input means for selective connection to the output of the ignition analyzer circuits and including a capacitor means adapted to be connected in series with the primary winding of an ignition pulse transformer and an ignition capacitor of the capacitor discharge ignition system and, said adapter capacitor being selected to store energy and provide a scaled energy output voltage signal to said meter in accordance with the charge on the ignition capacitor to thereby provide a direct output signal reading in accordance with the energy level output of the capacitor discharge ignition capacitor, said adapter having a common input for various ignition systems and having individual inputs for each capacitor discharge ignition system having a different operating voltage level whereby the output energy is correspondingly scaled for each ignition system.
 28. The ignition analyzing apparatus of claim 26 wherein said pulse simulating generator includes a blocking oscillator having a triggered input to initiate a cycle of operation and a separate cutoff means to terminate a cycle of operation, said selection switch means having means to connect the triggered input to the pulse source, an output energy storage inductor including rectifying means connected to a pair of output connectors for selective connection of the output to charge a capacitor discharge ignition system, a capacitor connected in parallel with said rectifying means to allow a portion of the reverse energy to pass between said terminals and the load to generate a small negative pulse signal operable as a triggering source for firing of a negated switch for discharging of a capacitor of a capacitor discharge ignition system, and said pulse source including means establishing a delayed pulse in timed relation to the turn on pulse to the pulse simulatIng generator to provide an independent trigger pulse.
 29. The analyzer of claim 26 wherein the impedance transformer of said first coupling circuit includes a primary winding essentially corresponding to the pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system, rectifying means connected to the output of the first coupling transformer and driving a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system, means connecting the output signal appearing across said coupling resistance to the input of the counting means to provide a corresponding pulsed operation thereof.
 30. The analyzer of claim 26 wherein said second coupling circuit includes a coupling resistance corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor, voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element, an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.
 31. The ignition analyzer of claim 26 including a tachometer circuit checking system signal source including a regulated voltage connected to said voltage supply and having a resistance coupling output, said selection switch means selectively connecting said output to said function tap whereby a regulated voltage is impressed upon said tachometer for calibrating of the reading of the tachometer.
 32. In an ignition analyzer for analyzing of the functioning of a capacitor discharge ignition system employing a capacitor periodically charged from an energy source and discharged through a breakerless distributor driven circuit and having a breakerless pulse generator establishing a series of time spaced discharge control pulses to said driven circuit for discharging of said capacitor, the improvement comprising an impedance matching circuit having input terminal means for connection to the output of the distributor driven circuit and establishing a load essentially corresponding to the load created by a preselected capacitor discharge ignition system, and indicating means connected to the output of the matching circuit and driven in accordance with the timed output thereof.
 33. The ignition analyzer of claim 32 wherein said indicating means including a counting means to count the pulses generated through the matching circuit and establishing a corresponding reduced number of pulses, an indicator driven from said counting device to provide an intermittent operation in accordance with the pulsed operation from the distributor circuit to thereby indicate the functioning of the distributor circuit.
 34. The analyzer of claim 33 wherein said impedance matching circuit includes an impedance transformer having a primary winding essentially corresponding to the pulse transformer impedance of the capacitor discharge ignition system, rectifying means connected to the output of the coupling transformer and driving a resistance load related to the load of the capacitor discharge ignition system, means connecting the output signal appearing across said resistance load to the input of the counting device to provide a corresponding pulsed operation thereof.
 35. The analyzer of claim 33 wherein said impedance matching circuit includes a coupling resistance connected to said input terminals and corresponding to the resistance load impressed by the capacitor discharge ignition system upon the distributor, voltage dividing network adapted to divide the voltage appearing across said resistance element, an electronic switch connected and driven from said voltage dividing network and having an output connected to said counting means of said indicating circuit to provide corresponding energization thereof.
 36. An ignition system analyzer for checking or analyzing the operation of a plurality of different types of capacitor discharge ignition systems each of which includes a cApacitor which is selectively discharged to transfer energy to the spark plugs of an engine, said systems including pulse generating means including pulse coupling transformers and including resistive couplings, comprising a pulse source means including a relaxation oscillator and a switch means connected to said oscillator and having a plurality of output means for interconnecting of said pulse signals to said ignition systems, a counting means coupled to drive an indicating means at a selected periodic repetition rate, a manually operated test switch selectively connecting the positive power side of the supply to the oscillator, said pulse oscillator causig a detectable and ausible signal upon closure of said switch to thereby provide an audible indication of the satisfactory operating of the oscillator circuit, a first impedance matching circuit having a transformer means for matching the impedance of a transformer pulse generator, a second impedance matching coupling circuit including a resistance input, a selection switch means selectively connecting said impedance matching circuits to drive said counting means, and a second self-test switch connected to said selection switch means and selectively interconnecting the output of the pulse source means to the input of said impedance matching circuits and the output to the counting means whereby simultaneous operation of said test switch and said system test switch establishes intermittent energization of said indicating means if the corresponding matching circuit is functioning properly. 